THE DEPARTURE
Morgan was stunned, mindlessly following Gabriel, who was walking unusually fast given his injuries. She wanted to stop him and ask him why, to demand an explanation, but his eyes and his body told her that he had none to offer, that there was no way back. She could see his pain but was unable to overcome her own grief in order to provide him with any comfort or reassurance. She felt scared, humiliated and betrayed.
They stopped at the pavilion. She changed into her own clothes, and he picked up a bag. Then they walked to the stables, and he whispered, “Do you know how to ride?” His voice choked.
She shook her head.
He walked in the direction of his horse, who was restless, probably feeling his master’s distress. Gabriel took a minute to calm the animal before he helped M
